Christian Science couple were...

CHRISTIAN SCIENTIST. A

August 7, 1989

- SANTA ROSA, CALIF. — CHRISTIAN SCIENTIST. A Christian Science couple were acquitted Friday of involuntary manslaughter but were convicted of child endangerment for relying on prayer instead of medical treatment for their dying infant daughter. Mark Rippberger, 35, and Susan Middleton, 39, members of the Church of Christ, Scientist, face up to four years in state prison for the 1984 meningitis death of their 8-month-old daughter, Natalie.